SIBU, Nov 15 (Bernama) -- A local conglomerate has contributed about RM1.43 million since 2016 to help 217 Universiti Teknologi Sarawak (UTS) students facing financial difficulties continue their studies.
UTS Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Shahril Osman said the contribution by Hock Peng Organisation (HPO), channelled through the Toh Li Hua Foundation, was aimed at easing the financial burden on the students and their families.
He said the collaboration between HPO and UTS also covered sponsorship of student and staff activities, internship and career opportunities, as well as accommodation at UniCity, which can house about 1,000 people.
"This contribution means much more than just figures. It enables students to continue their studies, eases their families' financial burden and gives the younger generation confidence to pursue their aspirations," he said at a ceremony celebrating UTS graduates of 2026 here today.
Mohammad Shahril also thanked UTS' strategic partners and sponsors, including the Board of Engineers Malaysia, the Royal Institution of Surveyors Malaysia and Yayasan Sarawak, for their support in developing young talent.
He said higher education should go beyond academic achievement to include character development, good values, leadership and soft skills to prepare students for the working world.
UTS, through its Student Development and Services Centre, provides co-curricular activities such as sports, community service and leadership programmes to develop these skills.
-- BERNAMA